[3] It is derived from the reaction of methyl ethyl ketone and hydrogen peroxide under acidic conditions.
[6] Solutions of 30 to 40% MEKP are used in industry and by hobbyists as catalyst to initiate the crosslinking of unsaturated polyester resins used in fiberglass, and casting.
[citation needed] Whereas acetone peroxide is a white powder at STP, MEKP is slightly less sensitive to shock and temperature, and more stable in storage.
MEKP is a severe skin irritant and can cause progressive corrosive damage or blindness.
The volatile decomposition products of MEKP can contribute to the formation of vapor-phase explosions.